Brass Rail   

Self-described as "San Diego's first gay bar," The Brass Rail -- which burst into being, fully formed, way back in 1960 -- is a must-stop on any tour of the city's gay and lesbian bars. Its move from downtown to Hillcrest back in the day is part of the reason that Hillcrest is currently the heart of gay SD. But The Brass Rail isn't resting on its laurels. A sunken bar is the natural gathering spot in the large main room, which includes a dance floor along with a shuffleboard table, video games and billiards along the edges. Smokers aren't entirely segregated from the health-minded here; they can at least spy on the goings-on from the usually crowded, brass-railed patio. However, inside's where the main action is, and every night of the week offers a different theme, from Boiz and Gerlz night to special offers of free pool and Latin music. It also hosts authentic Mexican music nights and hip-hop nights -- one of the few gay bars around to do so.